Delhi Jal Board Proactively Seeks Additional Water Supply from Neighboring States
In a strategic move to avert potential water scarcity during the upcoming summer months, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is actively exploring options to secure extra water from Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The board has formally requested an additional supply of 100 cusecs of water, scheduled to be delivered from April through July, to address the anticipated surge in demand as temperatures rise.
Precautionary Measures Amid Favorable Current Conditions
Speaking to sources, a senior DJB official emphasized that while the current weather conditions are favorable and the water situation remains under control, this request is a precautionary step. "There is no immediate need for additional water, but we have sought 100 cusecs keeping future requirements in mind," the official stated. Delhi currently receives its allocated daily share of approximately 924 cusecs, and maintaining this level is deemed critical, especially during summer when supply often experiences dips.
"Our priority is to ensure that the existing allocation does not fall below 924 cusecs, as any reduction during peak summer can severely impact water availability," the officer added, highlighting the vulnerability of the city's water infrastructure during high-demand periods.
Negotiations with Haryana: Infrastructure Upgrades in Exchange for Water
Discussions with Haryana are already underway, with Delhi making a clear demand for the additional 100 cusecs. Crucially, Delhi has insisted that Haryana must not reduce the existing allocation under any circumstances, and Haryana has provided assurances to the DJB on this front. In a novel proposal, the DJB has offered to repair and modernize the aging but vital water conveyance systems—specifically the Delhi Sub-Branch (DSB) and the Carrier Line Channel (CLC)—in exchange for the extra water supply.
Engagement with Himachal Pradesh and Regulatory Hurdles
Talks with Himachal Pradesh are also progressing, though they face regulatory complexities. An existing memorandum of understanding allows for the utilization of Himachal Pradesh's unspent Yamuna water. However, the matter is currently under consideration by the Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB), which will determine whether the surplus can be allocated to Delhi.
"Himachal Pradesh has indicated that it may not have as much surplus water as previously estimated. The UYRB has sought data from both Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, and two meetings have already been held. Another meeting is expected in April," the official explained. The UYRB, established in 1995 under the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, regulates and allocates water among Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi, operating under the framework of the 1994 Yamuna Water Sharing Agreement.
Optimism Amid Rising Temperatures and Future Needs
Authorities remain optimistic about securing a favorable outcome for Delhi's demand for the additional 100 cusecs. With temperatures expected to rise sharply in the coming months, the success of these inter-state negotiations will be pivotal in determining whether Delhi can avoid its annual water shortages. The officer also noted that work on new water treatment plants is underway, and additional raw water will be required once these facilities become operational, underscoring the long-term planning involved in these efforts.
This proactive approach by the Delhi Jal Board reflects a broader strategy to enhance water security through both immediate negotiations and future infrastructure developments, aiming to ensure a stable and reliable water supply for the capital's residents during the challenging summer season.
